Kawaracho Spring Water (Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture) | Charm of Japan’s 100 Best Waters and Hadano Basin Spring Water Group – Visitor Guide
The Kawaracho Spring Water quietly flowing from the ground in the urban area of Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a precious water resource that has miraculously survived amidst advancing urbanization. As one of the springs in the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group, which was selected by the Ministry of the Environment for “Japan’s 100 Best Waters,” conservation activities continue to be carried out by local residents. This article conveys the full appeal of this famous water, from the characteristics and historical background of Kawaracho Spring Water to water quality information and practical visiting methods.
What is Kawaracho Spring Water?
Kawaracho Spring Water is a natural spring located in Kawaracho, Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Located in the eastern part of Hadano City’s urban area, right next to the Kawaracho intersection, clear water continues to flow abundantly despite being in an urban setting.
As Part of the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group
Kawaracho Spring Water is one of the springs that constitutes the “Hadano Basin Spring Water Group,” which was selected as part of the “Japan’s 100 Best Waters” by the Environmental Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment) in January 1985 (Showa 60). The Hadano Basin Spring Water Group includes, in addition to Kawaracho Spring Water, multiple spring sites such as Kobo’s Clear Water, Izumi Spring, Gomayashiki Water, and Maimai Spring.
Hadano City is the only municipality in Kanagawa Prefecture with a basin topography, and its unique underground structure forms a “natural water reservoir (underground water basin).” This underground water basin holds approximately 750 million tons of groundwater, which appears as abundant spring water in various locations throughout the city.
Relationship with the Kino River Water System
The water flowing from Kawaracho Spring Water flows into the Kino River. The Kino River is a first-class river flowing through Hadano City and empties into Sagami Bay. By functioning as one of the water sources of the Kino River, the spring water contributes to maintaining river water volume and water quality conservation.
The Geology of Hadano Basin and the Spring Water Mechanism
Understanding Kawaracho Spring Water requires knowledge of the geological structure unique to the Hadano Basin.
Natural Water Reservoir Structure
The Hadano Basin is a basin surrounded by mountains including the Tanzawa Mountains, Mount Oyama, and the Shibusawa Hills. Beneath this basin exists a special layered structure with alternating permeable sand and gravel layers and impermeable clay layers.
Rainwater that falls on the mountains infiltrates underground and travels through permeable layers to collect at the bottom of the basin. The groundwater is then retained by impermeable layers and naturally flows out at locations with lower topography or at the boundaries between layers. This is the basic mechanism of the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group.
Abundant Groundwater Resources
The approximately 750 million tons of groundwater stored in the Hadano Basin’s underground water basin is equivalent to about 20 years of water consumption for Hadano City residents. This abundant groundwater not only appears as spring water at the surface but is also utilized as a water source for the city’s tap water.
Approximately 80% of Hadano City’s tap water is supplied by groundwater and is highly praised as “delicious tap water.” In fact, the fact that the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group won first place in the “Excellent Taste in Famous Waters Division” of the Famous Waters 100 Selection election attests to the superiority of its water quality.
Characteristics and Water Quality of Kawaracho Spring Water
Precious Spring Water Remaining in Urban Area
The greatest characteristic of Kawaracho Spring Water is its location in the heart of the urban area. While many springs are located in mountainous or suburban areas, Kawaracho Spring Water is situated in an area lined with residential houses and commercial facilities.
It is extremely rare for spring water to be preserved in such a location during advancing urban development. Without continuous conservation efforts by local residents and Hadano City, it would have been lost long ago.
Water Quality Characteristics
Spring water in the Hadano Basin generally possesses the following characteristics:
- Temperature Stability: Water temperature remains nearly constant throughout the year (approximately 15–17 degrees Celsius)
- Clarity: High transparency with almost no cloudiness
- Mineral Balance: Contains appropriate mineral content
- Soft Water Tendency: Soft to moderately hard water that suits Japanese taste preferences
Hadano City conducts regular water quality surveys at spring water sites within the city, with results published on the city’s website. For Kawaracho Spring Water as well, the suitability for drinking and water quality conditions are verified.
Seasonal Changes
Spring water volume fluctuates seasonally due to changes in precipitation and groundwater levels. Generally, water volume increases after the rainy season and autumn typhoon season, while it tends to decrease during the dry period from winter through spring. However, because the Hadano Basin’s underground water basin has a large capacity, the impact of short-term precipitation changes is relatively small, and stable discharge continues.
History and Cultural Background of Kawaracho Spring Water
History of Hadano and Water
Hadano City’s history is inseparably linked to abundant spring water. Since ancient times, a river called “Mizunashi-gawa” (Waterless River) has flowed, a name derived from the fact that water is not visible as it becomes a subsurface flow and travels underground. However, abundant water flows underground and appears as spring water in various locations.
During the Edo period, agriculture utilizing spring water from the Hadano Basin flourished. Tobacco cultivation was particularly famous, becoming a nationally recognized brand known as “Hadano Leaf.” High-quality water greatly contributed to improving crop quality.
History of Community Conservation
Kawaracho Spring Water faced a crisis of extinction due to urban development during the period of high economic growth. However, through strong demands from local residents and the city’s cooperation, conservation was decided upon.
The selection as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters in 1985 gave a major boost to Hadano City’s spring water conservation activities. Taking this as an opportunity, organized conservation activities began at spring water sites throughout the city, including Kawaracho Spring Water, and continue to the present day.
Regular cleaning activities by local residents, water quality monitoring, and surrounding environmental improvements are carried out, and these activities have preserved Kawaracho Spring Water to this day.
Access Methods and Visitor Information
Basic Information
- Location: Kawaracho, Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Hadano Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line
- Parking: No dedicated parking (use nearby paid parking facilities)
- Viewing Hours: 24 hours (however, please be considerate of nearby residents)
- Admission: Free
Access by Train
The nearest station is Hadano Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line. It is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by express train from Shinjuku and approximately 20 minutes from Odawara.
From Hadano Station to Kawaracho Spring Water is approximately 20 minutes on foot. Exiting the north exit of the station, head toward National Route 246, and aim for the Kawaracho intersection. The spring water site is near the intersection.
Access by Bus
When using a bus from Hadano Station, take a Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus to the “Kawaracho” bus stop and walk a few minutes. However, as the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance.
Access by Car
Approximately 15 minutes from the Hadano Nakai IC on the Tomei Expressway, or approximately 10 minutes from the Hadano IC on the Odawara-Atsugi Road. However, since Kawaracho Spring Water has no dedicated parking, you will need to use nearby paid parking facilities.
Precautions When Visiting
- Consideration for Residential Area: Kawaracho Spring Water is located in a residential area of the urban district. When visiting, please be sufficiently considerate to avoid causing inconvenience to nearby residents, such as noise and roadside parking.
- Regarding Drinking: If you consume spring water, be sure to check the most recent water quality test results. These are published on the Hadano City website. Drinking untreated water is at your own risk.
- Cooperation in Environmental Conservation: Always take trash with you and avoid polluting the spring water site and its surroundings.
- Photography: Be considerate to avoid capturing nearby residences in photos and pay attention to privacy.
Nearby Attractions and Other Spring Water Spots
When visiting Kawaracho Spring Water, it is recommended to visit other spring water spots in Hadano City as well.
Kobo’s Clear Water
One of the most famous springs in the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group. A legend remains that Kobo Daishi (Kukai) struck the ground with his staff and water flowed out. It is located approximately 10 minutes by car from Kawaracho Spring Water.
Izumi Spring Water Pond
A spring water pond within walking distance from Hadano Station, it has been developed as a park and is a place of relaxation for city residents. You can enjoy seasonal nature while observing the spring water.
Maimai Spring
A small spring in a residential area that is carefully protected by local residents. The name derives from the fact that many snails (maimai) used to inhabit the area.
Gomayashiki Water
Spring water in the Gomayashiki district in the northern part of Hadano City. The surrounding area is rich in nature and is also popular as a hiking course.
Hadano Togawa Park
A vast prefectural park overlooking the Tanzawa Mountains. The Mizunashi River flows through the park, and you can enjoy water play in the river. It is approximately 15 minutes by car from Kawaracho Spring Water.
Hadano City’s Water Environment Conservation Efforts
Groundwater Conservation Ordinance
Hadano City enacted the “Hadano City Groundwater Conservation Ordinance” in 1991 to work toward proper utilization and conservation of groundwater. This ordinance requires notification to the city for large-scale groundwater extraction, preventing excessive pumping.
Protection of Water Source Forest Areas
Protecting water source forest areas that nurture groundwater is also an important initiative. Hadano City supports forest conservation activities in the Tanzawa Mountains and maintains an environment that allows rainwater to easily infiltrate underground.
Citizen-Participated Conservation Activities
Citizen-led spring water conservation activities are actively conducted through organizations such as the “Hadano Famous Water Rotary Club.” Efforts to improve citizen awareness of the water environment are made through regular cleaning activities, cooperation with water quality surveys, and holding awareness events.
Creation of Famous Water Maps and Tourism Promotion
Hadano City has created a “Famous Water Map” introducing spring water spots throughout the city. Through this, spring water is utilized as a tourism resource while broadly communicating the importance of conservation. Kawaracho Spring Water is also featured on this map and introduced as one of the spots in the famous water tour route.
Kawaracho Spring Water Through the Seasons
Spring (March–May)
Spring is a season when fresh greenery is beautiful. Plants around the spring water site come into bud, and you can enjoy a landscape full of vitality. While water temperature is stable, the spring weather makes this an ideal time to visit.
Summer (June–August)
During the rainy season, spring water volume increases. On hot summer days, the cold spring water provides a sense of coolness. However, considering that it is in a residential area, visits in the early morning or evening are recommended.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is a season with stable weather and ideal for visiting. After typhoons, spring water volume may temporarily increase. Along with the surrounding autumn leaves, you can enjoy a calm atmosphere.
Winter (December–February)
Even in winter, spring water continues to flow without freezing. Since water temperature is higher than outside temperature, on winter mornings it may appear as if steam is rising. This is a season when visitors are few and you can observe the spring water in peace.
What is Japan’s 100 Best Waters?
The Hadano Basin Spring Water Group, to which Kawaracho Spring Water belongs, is one of the “Japan’s 100 Best Waters” selected by the Ministry of the Environment (then the Environmental Agency) in 1985.
Purpose of Japan’s 100 Best Waters
Japan’s 100 Best Waters aims to widely introduce clean water from various locations throughout the country and raise awareness of the importance of water environment conservation. Selection criteria include not only water quality but also conservation activities by local residents, affinity for water, and historical significance.
Japan’s 100 Best Waters in Kanagawa Prefecture
In addition to the Hadano Basin Spring Water Group, Kanagawa Prefecture has two other selections: “Shasuizu Falls and Takisawa River” (Yamakita Town) and “Kiyoshaemon Hell Pond” (Hakone Town). The Hadano Basin Spring Water Group is distinctive as a famous water particularly closely connected to citizens’ daily lives.
Famous Waters 100 Selection Election
In 2008, concurrent with the selection of “Heisei Famous Waters,” a “Famous Waters 100 Selection Election” was held targeting the Showa Famous Waters. The Hadano Basin Spring Water Group won first place in the “Division for Famous Waters with Excellent Taste,” reaffirming the superiority of its water quality.
Etiquette When Visiting Kawaracho Spring Water
The etiquette of each individual visitor is important for preserving Kawaracho Spring Water in the long term.
Basic Etiquette
- Take trash with you: Do not leave trash at the spring water site or its surroundings.
- Avoid loud voices: Remember it is a residential area and observe quietly.
- Do not trespass on private land: There are private properties around the spring water. Follow “No Entry” signs.
- Do not pollute the water: When directly touching spring water, clean your hands first. Do not use detergents or chemical substances.
- Avoid prolonged occupation: Be considerate of other visitors and maintain a spirit of sharing.
Etiquette for Drawing Water
When drawing spring water, please observe the following:
- Avoid drawing large quantities of water (keep to necessary minimum)
- Yield to others if someone is waiting
- Ensure containers are clean beforehand
- Check water quality test results and draw water at your own risk
Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate to avoid capturing nearby residences or residents
- Use of tripods is acceptable within limits that do not impede traffic
- Be cautious with location information in SNS posts (to avoid excessive tourist increase)
Conclusion: The Value and Future of Kawaracho Spring Water
Kawaracho Spring Water is a precious example in the modern age of advancing urbanization where the blessings of nature and human activity coexist. Clear water flowing from the ground in the heart of an urban area is not by any means a matter of course.
The preservation of this spring water to the present day is due to the strong will of local residents for conservation and their continuous efforts, as well as Hadano City’s appropriate water environment policies. By being selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters, it has attracted national attention and further momentum for conservation has increased.
Visiting Kawaracho Spring Water is not merely an opportunity to view famous water but an occasion to contemplate sustainable water environment approaches. The geological structure of the Hadano Basin that nurtures abundant groundwater, the water cycle mechanism, and people’s conservation efforts—all these combined work to preserve this small spring.
When visiting Hadano City, be sure to make your way to Kawaracho Spring Water. The clear water quietly flowing from the ground amidst urban bustle will convey to us the importance of nature and the thoughts of those who continue to protect it. And by each visitor maintaining awareness that they play a role in passing on this precious water environment to the next generation, we can help secure the future of Kawaracho Spring Water.
